In a nutshell

This study examined the 2-year outcomes in men who underwent convective therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This study concluded that this minimally invasive procedure was safe and continued to be effective after 2 years.

Some background

Medications are often the first choice of treatment for men with BPH and lower urinary tract symptoms. Many men, however, do not want to commit to long-term medication, and some experience side effects. Other treatment options are needed.

Convective water vapor energy is one type of minimally invasive treatment for BPH. In this treatment, water vapor is used to destroy the prostate tissue causing a blockage. This has been shown to lead to fast and significant improvements in BPH symptoms, without leading to erectile problems. The long-term effectiveness of this treatment is still under investigation.

Methods & findings

This study examined the 2-year outcomes of men who underwent thermal therapy. 197 men were included. These men all had high scores on a measure of prostate symptoms (the I-PSS). 136 men received thermal therapy. 61 men were treated with a sham (fake) procedure.

Men treated with thermal therapy had a 51% reduction in urinary symptoms at 2 years. 84% decreased by 5 points on the I-PSS. 74% decreased by 8 points. Urine flow and quality of life were both significantly improved. No new erectile dysfunction was reported.

After the study was completed, men in the sham procedure group were allowed to undergo thermal therapy. They all experienced improved symptoms.

The bottom line

This study concluded that this minimally invasive procedure was safe and continued to be effective after 2 years.